you will have to switch to a diff. brake pad, the factory ones dust like crazy, I haven't seen too many aftermarket pads come into the shop that don't squeek though, could be the install though since we didn't do it.

they do ride firm-but not harsh. we have seen issues with radio's but not usually on x5's.

at our shop we haven't seen too many issues with the inner door handles breaking either, but the inner door "pulls" will peel the coating off of them, especially if the people wear jewelry or anything else that will scratch the surface, then they just peel.

so far the x5 electrical system has been good, but the e60/5 series,e61/6 series, and e65/66/ 7 series all suck, as well as the e90/ 3 series.

At least they have a kick ass warranty and full maintenance

Well its a 06 but its brand new. My plan is to lease for 2 years and then buy it. (I can write the lease off on the business) I looked at 4.8s but to me it seems like allot more money for what 50 horsepower and some nicer trim? Maybe I'm wrong but the 4.4 sure look like the way to go. So I can plan on having my wheels dust out asap? Any special pads or manufacturer I should go with for different pads? I'm planning on getting different wheels and really dont want to clean them everyday. An ything else I should know? As far as rides if I wanted Cadilac soft I'd buy a Cadailac. We have 2 Ford Super Duty one tons and a Excursion so I like a stiffer ride.

What are the differences between a 4.4 and a 4.8? Can you tweak the engine for a few more ponies? How about towing? I have a Mastercraft X30, will it do it fine or should I just use the Super Duty's? I'm looking at a 4.4 with the sport package, premium package, Nav, Panoramic Sun Roof Anyway should I get the extended warranty and service on a lease? What custom tire and wheel combo would you advise? offset, size?
Thanks,
Mike

My wife has had 5 of them. She has had a new one from 2000-2005 and I really like them. You can pull up to 6000lbs with no problem. I just sold her 2006 4.8 because she wanted a Range Rover Supercharged Sport. I like the BMW alot better and I know the 4.8 is faster. As far as wheels, I always liked the BMW 20's. You can get some replicas for a reasonable price. The ride is a little choppy, but it does handle like a car. Go for it..

SW

So you think the 4.6 will pull the X30 just fine? I wont ask again but I'am curious on the differences between the 4.8 and 4.4 other than HP.
Thanks

the 4.4 and the 4.8 are basically the same engine, I have not seen any upgrades for either the 4.4 or the 4.8(the new engines/n62) not even from Dinan. the 4.4's run pretty hard, the 4.8's are pretty impressive but they are expensive.

as far as wheels I kinda like the 4.8 factory 20's, the dealer should have a tire department that should be able to answer any questions.

If you are gonna lease-then-buy you can wait on buying the extended maintenace and extended warranty til it is about ready to expire, but make sure you get them before the new vehicle warranty and maintenace expires.

I really don't have any brake pad recomendations because we only install factory parts, and if you install aftermarket pads then the full maintenace program wont replace them. the dust sucks but the brakes work awesome.

I also agree that the 4.6/4.8 isn't worth the extra money. You can swap out the wheels (like I did, factory 4.6 20's) and add the front/rear skirts and make the 4.4 look like a 4.8/4.6 quite easily. As fas as I know those are the only cosmetic differences besides badges and the actual larger engine. The X30 is a big boat, I would probably still use your super duty to tow. But I don't know towing specs on the X5 which I assume would be alot as it tows my sea-doo like nothing. Also the ride is stiff, but like SW said it handles and stops like a car. By far the most fun you can have driving an SUV.

also a good cosmetic upgrade is to remove all the black trim around the bumpers/fenders/rockers and have it sanded smooth and painted body color, makes em' look so much cleaner imo

Yes I think the Super Duty will remain the tow truck as I dont even use my Excursion so I dont get the wheels wet and have to repolish them. But if were going somewhere the Excursion is hard to beat it tows has room for everything inside, its just having to wipe down those dang 20" wheels after they get wet. Another reason I doubt I tow much with it is the X30 is heavy and getting a good tire rated for the weight is not fun. I gues than what I will do is just get the 4.4 and get the 4.8 dressing. I also like the rectangular exhaust tips of the 4.8. How are they for getting after market exhausts? Do they dual out well or are they allready tru dualed? Every rig I own with a gas engine has headers and a true dual exhaust with high flow cats. Its amazing the difference that makes.